Leaders in the Mt. Kenya region are beginning to resist intimidation and threats from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, with several openly speaking out.
Kiruga Thuku, the MCA for Chinga Ward in Nyeri County, is among the few who are pushing back against Gachagua’s attacks on President William Ruto’s administration.
In response to Gachagua’s recent criticism of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Kiruga has issued a strong rebuttal.
Gachagua, who is also from Nyeri, had claimed he helped Kanja secure the top police position, but accused Kanja of withdrawing his security detail and ignoring his calls.
Kiruga sharply criticized Gachagua, stressing that leaders in the police force cannot be easily swayed like politicians.
“For those who think they can control everything—who becomes MP, MCA, or who leads where—it’s important to understand that this kind of interference does not extend to leaders in the disciplined forces,” Kiruga said.
He continued, “In their roles, loyalty follows a different set of rules. If any leader in the disciplined forces even remotely feels that your actions might compromise their oath of office or their loyalty to their Commander-in-Chief, they won’t engage with you.”
Kiruga also advised Gachagua to stay in his lane, adding, “Whether or not you helped them get their jobs, their primary loyalty is to the nation, not to disgruntled politicians. Politicians must realize they can’t control everything, especially when it comes to interfering with the careers of security leaders.”
